This time of year the bay area oaks are waking up to spring. Some of the deciduous oaks have catkins dangling from the branches. This oak early in the morning glowed with catkins and lace lichen. A group of cows watched from a distance while I took photos of this tree which later turned into a large painting.
Sonoma Oak 36x36in oil on canvas
There are cows are just to the right of the tree trunk. This oak was majestic with all the colors of lichen and catkins clinging to its large branches. Lace lichen the light sage green on the tree is common in the coastal range and frequently on oak trees. It is an important food for deer and many species of birds use it for nests.
Crystal Harling 